Many feel that the missing link in Arsenal's squad recently has been a physical, defensive minded midfielder, in the mould of Gunners legend Vieira.

Although Alex Song has been in immense form this season, the Cameroon international has often had to bear the burden of defensive duties in the Arsenal midfield, alongside the more attack-minded Mikel Arteta, Aaron Ramsey and Tomas Rosicky.

The early-season woes suffered by Arsene Wenger and his men epitomised the defensive frailties within the middle of the park. These were brutally highlighted in the 8-2 defeat at the hands of Manchester United. M'Vila is considered by many to be the missing link in that Arsenal midfield.

A hefty fee is rumoured to be required to acquire the French midfielder’s services and that, given Wenger's unwillingness to splash the cash in the past, may put the Gunners off a potential deal.

HAVE YOUR SAY

So, do Arsenal break the bank and sign M'Vila? Is a defensive stronghold in the middle to support the likes of Jack Wilshere and Mikel Arteta needed? Can the France international partner Alex Song at the heart of Arsenal's midfield?

Can Arsenal fans justify the signing of a completely different type of player? Maybe a striker to link-up with goal-machine Robin van Persie? Or maybe even another man to boss the wings and threaten Theo Walcott and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s places on the flanks?

Below is our poll to vote in and get in touch via the comments section on this page and, of course, on our Twitter page @GoalUk.